Super Rugby will start a week earlier in 2013 so that two Australian derbies can be played.

This will allow the Australians to break early ahead of the June Test window and have an extra week’s preparation for their three-Test series against the British & Irish Lions.

The disruption for the New Zealand and South African teams should be minimal.

‘We are looking to start that Australian conference a week earlier which, in actual fact, means two games between their sides,’ said Sanzar boss Greg Peters. ‘It’s not an ideal situation but it’s a compromise that all three Sanzar countries and Sanzar have come to because it’s such an important tour.’

A preliminary draw has been issued to franchises and broadcasters but has yet to be officially confirmed.